List of Christian hospitals in China

List of Christian Hospitals in China

The history of Christian hospitals in China dates back to the late Qing Dynasty when Western missionaries began to enter China and establish medical facilities as part of their mission work. These hospitals played a significant role in introducing modern medicine and medical training to China. They were not only centers for healing but also played a pivotal role in medical education and the introduction of Western medical practices. This article provides a list of notable Christian hospitals that were established in China, highlighting their contributions to the healthcare system and their current status.

List of Christian Hospitals

• Renji Hospital - Founded in 1844 by the American missionary Dr. Elijah Coleman Bridgman in Shanghai, Renji Hospital is recognized as the first Western medical institution in China. It has grown into one of the largest hospitals in Shanghai.

• Peking Union Medical College Hospital - Established in 1906 in Beijing by the China Medical Board of the Rockefeller Foundation, it has been a leading institution in medical education and research in China.

• Huashan Hospital - Originally founded as the Chinese Red Cross General Hospital in 1907, it became affiliated with the Methodist Episcopal Church and was known for its contributions to medical education and treatment in Shanghai.

• Shantou University Medical College Hospital - Founded in 1922 by Christian missionaries in Shantou, this hospital has been instrumental in providing healthcare services and medical education in Southern China.

• Cheeloo University Hospital - Established in Jinan in the early 20th century, Cheeloo University Hospital was associated with Cheeloo University, one of the earliest Christian universities in China. It played a crucial role in medical education and healthcare in Shandong Province.

• St. Luke’s Hospital (Shanghai) - Founded in 1907 by the Episcopal Church of the USA, St. Luke’s Hospital was known for its high standard of medical care and training in Shanghai.

• Gulou Hospital - Located in Nanjing, Gulou Hospital was originally established by the Methodist Church in the early 20th century and has been a key medical institution in Jiangsu Province.

Current Status and Challenges

Many of the Christian hospitals that were established in China faced significant challenges during the political and social upheavals of the 20th century, including the Chinese Civil War and the Cultural Revolution. Some were nationalized and lost their religious affiliations, while others were closed. However, a number of these institutions have survived and continue to operate as major hospitals, albeit under government control and without their original Christian mission.

Contributions to Chinese Healthcare

Christian hospitals in China were pioneers in introducing modern medical practices, including surgery, obstetrics, and nursing. They also played a crucial role in the establishment of medical schools and the training of Chinese medical professionals. Their emphasis on compassionate care and the treatment of all patients, regardless of background, left a lasting impact on the development of the healthcare system in China.

See Also

• History of Christianity in China
• Medical education in China
• Healthcare in China

This list is incomplete; you can help WikiMD by expanding it.